Tag: Sol de Janeiro

It seems like everyone is talking about the Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream these days. I decided to find out what all the fuss was about and picked it up online at Sephora.

Although there is a cheaper 2.5 oz version (priced at 25.00 CAD) I decided to pick up the 8.1 oz pot (priced at 57.00 CAD). Since maybe 75% of the reviews I was reading were positive I felt it was the best decision in case I ended up loving it.

The cream is advertised to help “tighten and smooth the look of the skin”. It contains an Amazonian plant ingredient called ‘Guarana Extract’ which is said to be one of the strongest forms of caffeine in the world. The reviews online are mixed with some people complaining on how it did not have a skin-tightening effect, while others praise it for its so-called “warm scent” and slightly shimmery finish which causes them to continue to rub it all over their body.

A quick look at the instructions indicate to massage the cream into the skin in circular motions. It can be used on the legs, arms, tummy, and of course the bum bum!

What initially stood out to me was the packaging. I liked the bright-orange pot and creamy-white lid, paired with the Sol de Janeiro logo. It really gives you that tropical vibe.

Now onto the actual cream. The consistency is thick and creamy. Its almost whipped buttery-like. Unfortunately it smells SO STRONG! Although it does have those hints of coconut oil, there is something overpoweringly perfumey and acidic to it.

I was really hoping that it wouldn’t smell as strong when applied. I decided to test it by applying it to my arm by rubbing it as instructed. The cream itself applies very nicely and is easily absorbed into the skin. I even felt a little tingling sensation at first. Unfortunately, the smell was the same – very strong, very perfumey. The smell lingered for hours and only went away when I took a shower the next day.

Now I don’t know if I am overly sensitive to strong scents… but I am affected by acidic smells. If someone starts peeling an orange next to me or is wearing a very acidic perfume I usually get a headache and start to feel nauseous. This is the same effect this cream had on me.

While there are some great aspects to this product, the smell is one that I absolutely cannot stand. I guess I was expecting it to be more warm and tropical. I am really not one to return things, but this is 57 bucks I do not want to see go to waste sitting on my night table.

What you guys think of the Brazilian Bum Bum Cream? Am I just being overly sensitive to the smell or is it really that bad? Did I get a bad batch? Leave a comment below!